Technology
Tuesday, January 30th, 2024 3:29 pm EDT
Key Points
- Apple’s new Vision Pro headset, priced at $3,500, is the company’s first major gadget since the Apple Watch in 2015, offering a unique spatial computing experience.
- The headset features super sharp and colorful displays, “passthrough” technology for a clear view of the real world, and a fast processor, overcoming common issues found in other headsets like the Meta Quest 3.
- The Vision Pro provides a groundbreaking experience with a dedicated App Store, the ability to run iPhone and iPad apps, and a multitasking environment that allows users to customize their virtual space, watch movies, play games, and work, making it a potential game-changer in the future of computing.
The article discusses the newly launched Apple Vision Pro headset, providing a comprehensive review based on a week of testing. Priced at $3,500, the headset marks Apple’s major foray into the market since the Apple Watch in 2015. The author praises the device for its groundbreaking “spatial computing” experience, introducing a new world of interactions where users can seamlessly blend their real surroundings with a digital environment. The key strengths highlighted include the device’s super-sharp and colorful screens, a “passthrough” feature enabling clear visibility of the real world, and a powerful M2 processor, typically found in Macs.
The displays effectively eliminate the “screendoor” effect, common in lower-cost headsets, providing a crisp view. The “passthrough” technology is commended for its clarity and sharpness, enhancing the overall immersive experience. The article underscores the accuracy and ease of navigation, likening it to the revolutionary introduction of multitouch displays with the iPhone. The absence of controllers is noted, replaced by eye-tracking sensors for navigation.
Multitasking capabilities are a standout feature, allowing users to customize their environment with different apps and tasks. The article emphasizes the efficient rendering of content through foveated rendering, maintaining crispness in focused areas while optimizing processing. The author expresses satisfaction with the device’s performance, highlighting its suitability for activities like watching movies and gaming.
The FaceTime functionality is acknowledged, presenting a clear video of the caller in a 3D-rendered form called a digital Persona. While still in beta, the Persona creation process is detailed, providing a more human and less cartoonish representation. The external display of the Persona’s eyes is considered a unique feature.
The built-in speakers with spatial audio support, spatial photos capturing 3D moments, and premium build quality are also lauded. However, the article notes some drawbacks, including the limited app ecosystem, with major apps like Netflix, Spotify, Uber, DoorDash, and Amazon absent. The article highlights some bugs and limitations, such as issues with Apple Keychain in iPad apps and a floating keyboard that requires improvement for faster typing.
In conclusion, the author expresses a strong positive sentiment toward the Apple Vision Pro, stating a willingness to purchase it if priced more affordably. The device’s potential for mass adoption is emphasized, contingent on future iterations offering a lower price point. Despite its current niche status, the article concludes that the Apple Vision Pro represents a paradigm shift in computing and is deemed Apple’s most exciting product in years.
For the full original article on CNBC, please click here: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/01/30/apple-vision-pro-review-the-future-of-computing-and-entertainment.html
